What Is Replacement Car Keys Cost And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

Before you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare. To make it easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

automotive car key replacement  of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer.  automotive key replacement  could cost you $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a standard key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key will work with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced open. This could make it hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's better to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.